ISLAMABAD: PTI chairman Imran Khan could not be indicted in Tosha Khana reference  yesterday and the court accepted former Prime Minister (PM) plea for exemption from appearance. The matter of criminal proceedings against Imran Khan in Tosha Khana reference came up for hearing before Judge Zafar Iqbal of district and sessions court Islamabad. A team of 4 lawyers comprising Ali Zafar, Ali Bokhari, Khawaja Haris and Gauhar Ali Khan  was set up by Imran Khan to contest the case. The power of attorney by these four counsels was filed in the court.

At the inception of hearing plea was filed by Imran Khan for exemption from attendance on medical grounds. Judge Zafar Iqbal inquired have the surety bonds been submitted. Gouhar Ali Khan counsel for Imran Khan told the court yes the surety bonds were filed a day before. The judge remarked if the exemption plea continues to be filed this way then how will indictment take place. Ali Bokhari  the other counsel of Imran Khan raised objection they have not been provided verified copies. The copies are not provided through screen shorts of whatsapp.

Saad Hassan counsel for Election Commission (EC) said they have  provided verified copies of evidence to the lawyers of PTI.  The verified copies have been provided to PTI lawyers before the  court. The court directed the verified copies of all evidence be provided to the court and  PTI lawyers. Counsel for PTI Saad Hassan said we will provide  verified copies of complaints and evidence today. Saad Hassan objected  as to why Imran Khan has not come to court so far. He comes running to the container. Ali  Bukhari counsel for Imran Khan said no such statements  be given which showed work of Munshis (clerk)  is being done. Talk of law. We also know how to talk. Avoid a tense situation.

Imran Khan has to appear in the court of Judge Rakhshanda Shaheen on February 15. Give the date after February 15. Judge inquired has Imran Khan to come in the court of judge Rakhshanda Shaheen on February 15. Tell me a date Imran Khan will come to court when. Ali Bokhari counsel for Imran Khan said if his health allows him then Imran Khan will come. He is following doctor’s advice. The counsel for EC said counsels for Imran Khan bring with them Meerasi (clown). The counsels for PTI raised ruckus demanding EC lawyer should withdraw his words. They said counsel for EC is Munshi (clerk).They should compete us in political field. Then we give reply.

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 08 2023

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